If you want this promotion, you're going to have to 'step up to the plate'. [=you will have to improve your work performance to show that you deserve the promotion]
She has a lot 'on her plate' right now. [=she has a lot of things that she has to deal with right now]
He was handed the job 'on a plate'. [=he was given the job without having to do anything to earn it]
(..) All right, just relax. Okay? - Come here. Calm down. - I have to go back to work. Let's get ready for bed. Hey, put your plate in the sink. A few days ago I was presented with a report I'd asked for... ...a comprehensive audit, if you will, of our economic condition. ...and then go to work (..)2006 The Pursuit of Happyness